IAIA Chair of Cinematic Arts Department James Lujan to have TV Script Developed

SANTA FE – James Lujan (Taos Pueblo), Department Chair of Cinematic Arts & Technology at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA), has had his script selected as one of three projects to move into the development phase by Blue Sky Producers Lab.

Blue Sky, a New Mexico-based film and television development company, began taking submissions in May. It is focusing on projects that can be shot and edited in-state, with production budgets between $1 million and $5 million. Blue Sky hopes to take a total of five projects into development this year.

The three initial projects include The Tomahawk, a contemporary Native American-themed TV series by writer James Lujan;The Virgin Vampire Hunter, a genre-comedy by writers David Morris and Bart Koerner; and The Taos Massacre, an historical piece based on the Taos Revolt of 1847, with producer Frank Gallegos.

“We’re really excited to be in partnership with all of these folks,” said Tony DellaFlora, one of the company founders. “We’ve always believed there were plenty of great stories and creative talent in New Mexico and the first batch of submissions proved that. Now we’ll try to get them to the next level.”

Blue Sky will form a separate limited liability company for each project. The company is working with InvestNewMexico.us, a New Mexico-centric crowdfunding equity investment portal, to package financing for the projects.

“The quality of projects Blue Sky has approved should attract investors from throughout the country,” according to Kenneth Segura Knoll founder of InvestNewMexico.us and partner with Blue Sky.

Through the development process, Blue Sky will help polish the scripts, attach actors, directors and producers, and prepare for production “green lighting.”

Blue Sky continues to seek scripts and treatments. Information can be found at their website,www.blueskyprolab.com.

The other partners in Blue Sky include Sean Cardinalli and Dan Landes.

Lujan acknowledged his selection by remarking: “For New Mexico to have a sustainable film industry, it can’t be at the mercy of Hollywood, so I think it’s very important to support the work of homegrown filmmakers. If my project can provide opportunities for local talent, then I’m glad to contribute.”

To arrange an interview with James, please contact Eric Davis at 505.424.2351, oreric.davis@iaia.edu.